Kahi Loa

The uniqueness of Kahi Loa massage

Kahi Loa is one of the ancient Hawaiian systems of bodywork that falls under the general category of Lomi Lomi. Its unique features are:

It works on the skin instead of the muscles

It uses no oil

The recipient may be fully clothed

It can be done in any position

The Hawaiian Kupua (healers) prefer this system because of its simplicity and its ease of application. Serge Kahili King – the author of “Urban Shaman” teaches this particular form. He has learned it from the Kahili family in Kauai Island and developed it further using his own experience.

“Kahi” is the word which means “oneness, fire, and light pressure”. Kahi Loa (Great Kahi) is a type of healing which involves the mind, the body, and the energy of both the practitioner and the recipient. Like all Hawaiian healing systems, its purpose is to promote the free and abundant flow of life energy.

Formally, Kupua – the shaman applies these in sequence; first on the back and then on the front of the body, at least three times each. Informally, they may be used as desired, independently or grouped.

An important part of this practice is the feedback from the recipient before, during and after each segment. The shaman modifies his practice in line with this feedback. The recipient may also maintain a healing affirmation or symbol during the process.